And after Lyon claimed Newcastle had contacted them about Gomis, Pardew confirmed he is chasing the France international - with doubts over Papiss Cisse's future after refusing to wear the club's Wonga-sponsored shirt due to religious beliefs.

"We have expressed an interest in Gomis," Pardew told The Times.

"We think that he's a player who has great potential.

"He's a French international who's played at the highest level for his club."

Last season, Gomis scored 16 goals and set up another six in 37 games as he helped Lyon to third spot in Ligue 1, while the French club also reached the knockout stages of the Europa League before being eliminated by Tottenham.